Why Does My Leg Hurt? Understanding Sciatica and What to Do About It
Pain that starts in your lower back and runs down your leg is not normal. It could be sciatica. Knowing what causes it helps you get the right care and feel better faster.
What Is Sciatica?
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in your body. It runs from your lower back, through your hip, and down the back of each leg.
Sciatica happens when something presses on this nerve. The pressure sends pain signals down the path of the nerve. This can affect one leg or, in rare cases, both legs.
Common Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica pain can feel different from person to person. Most people notice one or more of these signs.
- Sharp or burning pain down one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that gets worse when sitting
- A constant ache on one side of the lower back
What Causes Sciatica?
A herniated or bulging disc is the most common cause. The disc presses on the nerve root and triggers pain. Our article on disc injury symptoms after a car accident explains how this happens.
Other common causes include tight muscles in the hip, bone spurs, and spinal narrowing. Sitting for long hours can also make sciatica worse.
Many of our Ocala patients develop sciatica after a fall or a car accident. The sudden force of a crash can injure a disc and irritate the nerve. You can read more in our guide on what to do after a car accident in Ocala.
Sciatica vs Regular Back Pain
Regular back pain usually stays in your lower back. It feels achy or stiff and rarely travels.
Sciatica is different. The pain travels down your leg and often feels sharp or burning. Numbness and tingling are also common with sciatica but rare with simple back pain.
How a Chiropractor Treats Sciatica
A chiropractor starts with an exam to find where the nerve is being pinched. This helps build a treatment plan made for your specific case.
Gentle spinal adjustments can take pressure off the sciatic nerve. Many patients feel less pain after just a few visits. Stretches and exercises also help keep the pressure from coming back.
If your sciatica started after an accident, you may have other injuries too. Our article on whiplash after a car accident covers what else to watch for.
Is your pain centered more in your back than your leg? Our piece on the truth about back pain can help you understand your options.
When to Worry About Leg Pain
Most sciatica cases improve with conservative care. But some signs mean you need help right away.
See a doctor right away if you lose control of your bladder or bowels. The same is true if your leg suddenly feels weak or numb. These can point to a more serious problem that needs fast treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does sciatica pain feel like?
Sciatica often feels like a sharp, burning, or shooting pain that runs from your lower back down one leg. Some people also feel numbness or tingling.
Can a chiropractor help with sciatica?
Yes. Chiropractic adjustments can take pressure off the sciatic nerve and ease pain. Many patients feel relief after a few visits.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is often caused by a herniated disc, a tight muscle, or bone spurs pressing on the sciatic nerve. Car accidents can also cause it.
How long does sciatica last?
Mild sciatica can clear up in a few weeks. Sciatica caused by a disc injury can last longer without proper treatment.
When should I worry about sciatica pain?
See a doctor right away if you lose control of your bladder or bowels. The same is true if your leg becomes weak or numb.
Dealing with leg pain in Ocala? Fakhoury Medical and Chiropractic Center offers medical and chiropractic care under one roof. Call (352) 351-3413 to schedule your exam today.
